Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth because they're the only solution that prevents the loss of jawbone. Because dental implants are a newer procedure, especially in comparison to bridges and dentures which have been around for quite a while, there's a lot of misinformation floating around about them. Today we're going to dispel some of the most common myths about dental implants.
Dental Implants Aren't for Young People
Some of our patients wonder if they're too young for dental implants. If you're an adult, you're healthy, and you have an adequate jawbone to support implants, you're a candidate for the procedure. Whenever a tooth needs to be replaced, dental implants are a viable option, whether you're 20 years old or 80. Because implants last a lifetime, they're a great option for young patients who want replacement teeth that look and function just like natural teeth. There's no reason to feel embarrassed about needing dental implants, no matter what your age.
The Process of Getting Dental Implants Is Painful
We won't sugarcoat it––getting implants is a lengthy process and it can be scary, especially for patients who get nervous about dental procedures. But is it painful? No!
You may experience discomfort during and after your procedure, but not pain. We use local anesthesia to numb the area where we're working; depending on your anxiety level and the complexity of your procedure, we can also offer options for sedation. Getting dental implants might not be your idea of a fun time, and we understand that, but our priority is making sure you are calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. After your implants are placed, you may experience some tenderness and swelling, but over-the-counter pain relievers are usually all you need to take the edge off.
Dental Implants Have Long-Term Health Consequences
This is one of the most common myths found on the internet. People believe dental implants can cause migraines and tension headaches; failure rates are inflated and horror stories abound. Like anything else, people are more likely to share poor outcomes than positive ones––the truth is that dental implants have a 98% success rate. In the decades since dental implants have been in common use, no evidence has emerged to show that they cause chronic migraines.
Dental implants are a form of oral surgery, and as such, the procedure has the same risks as any other type of surgery: infection, nerve damage (which is usually temporary), and injury to the surrounding structures. When dental implants fail, it can be painful and emotionally devastating, but failure is rare, particularly when all the right steps are taken to ensure success.
Dental Implants Are Too Expensive
It's true, dental implants are expensive. But it's important to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. With dental implants, you're choosing to spend more upfront, but because dental implants are intended to last a lifetime, you'll never need to spend another penny on them, assuming you care for them properly. With bridges and dentures, you'll spend less money upfront, but because they need regular replacement, you may end up spending more in the long-run.
The cost of implants also depends on the type of implant being used and, of course, the number of teeth that need to be replaced. If your dental insurance plan doesn't cover the cost of implants, we provide financing to our patients through CareCredit.
Get the Facts About Dental Implants
Are you ready to learn more about dental implants? Contact us at 508-336-8478 to schedule your first visit.